Mastercards brand redesign “less is more”
In July 2016, Mastercard featured its first logo redesign in 20 years created by renowned design agency Pentagram. The revision led the company to opt for a simpler and more minimalist visual image that was “modernized and optimized for an increasingly digital world.”
Fast forward in 2019, the financial services company has made another modification to further simplify its iconic red and yellow emblem. : removing its “mastercard” name from the visual in selected contexts. This includes cards with your red and yellow branding, acceptance marks at retail stores in the physical and digital realms, and major endorsement properties.
The mastercard logo
We usually don’t like to name drop, but we think we can make an exception… https://t.co/dBYylvH0MF pic.twitter.com/Qk2Qa4ZJlc
— Mastercard (@Mastercard) January 7, 2019
The movement only leaves the ‘Symbol’, its widely recognized interlocking circles that have existed for over 50 years. They represent Mastercard’s commitment to connecting customers with priceless possibilities, and according to the company, they represent Mastercard “better than a word.”
By deleting the name, Mastercard aims to make your logo design even more adaptable, allowing you to work seamlessly in the world’s growing digital environment.
In a press release
Mastercard Marketing and Communications Director Raja Rajamannar explained: “[Con] More than 80 percent of people who spontaneously recognize the symbol without the word ‘mastercard’ feel ready to take the next step in the evolution of our brand. We are proud of our rich brand heritage and are excited to see the iconic circles stand up for themselves. ”
“We live in an age where, every time plus, we communicate not through words but through icons and symbols, ”added Michael Bierut, established graphic designer and partner at Pentagram.
“The financial giant has had the great fortune of being represented by two interlocking circles, one red and one yellow, since its founding in 1966. Now, by allowing this symbol to shine on its own, Mastercard enters an elite cadre of brands that are not represented. by name, but by symbol: an apple, a target, a swoosh. Mastercard’s two interconnected circles have always represented its commitment to connecting people. Now, this commitment is given a greater presence by Mastercard’s status as a symbol brand, ”said Bierut.
